Student Driving Information

Teen Driving Information

Driving Eligibility Certificate Eliminated 

The NC General Assembly has eliminated the requirement for the Driving Eligibility Certificate (DEC) for teen drivers effective October 1, 2026, as outlined in SL2026-46. Students will no longer need DECs to obtain a driver's license. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

How do I become a teen driver? 

If you are between 15 and 17 years old, North Carolina uses a graduated licensing process to help you gain driving experience before receiving full driving privileges.

To get started, you must be at least 15 years old and have a driver education certificate from an approved driver education course.

For more information, visit the NC DMV Teen Driver page. 

Can a homeschool or private school student enroll in an unapproved online driver education program? 

No. See guidance from the NC Department of Motor Vehicles for more information.